Brand Tool Kit

Printed materials—from brochures and flyers to banners and postcards—are an important part of how Lenoir-Rhyne University expresses its brand. All print pieces should follow the same visual and messaging standards outlined in this guide to ensure consistency across formats and audiences.

Before beginning any print project that is directed at an external target audience, please consult with the Office of Marketing and Communications to ensure appropriate use of logos, typography, colors and voice. We can also provide design support or refer you to approved designers and printers familiar with LR brand standards.

Print Best Practices

• Use official university logos, marks, sub-brand lockups with correct sizing, clear space and color usage.
• Maintain typographic consistency by using university-approved fonts
• Apply the LR color palette to reinforce brand identity and visual cohesion.
• Avoid use of unofficial taglines or unapproved variations of the university name.
• Include required statements, such as accreditation or nondiscrimination language, when appropriate.

The Office of Marketing and Communications reviews and approves print materials for external audiences to ensure brand integrity and message alignment.

Use of Official Logos & Marks

Lenoir-Rhyne University’s logos and marks are core elements of our brand identity and must be used with consistency, clarity and respect. Proper usage ensures that our communications remain professional, recognizable and aligned with the university’s mission and values.

Clear Space Requirements

To preserve the integrity and visual impact of the university’s logo and marks, clear space must be maintained on all sides. This designated area of isolation protects the logo from visual interference and ensures it remains legible and prominent.

• At a minimum, the clear space should equal the height of the “E” in the Lenoir-Rhyne logo or another unit defined in the official logo specifications.
• No text, images, patterns or graphic elements should appear within this area.

Proper Usage Guidelines

To maintain brand consistency and avoid visual distortion, the university’s logos and marks should:

• Never be stretched, compressed, skewed or rotated.
• Not be altered in color, proportions, typography or elements.
• Not be placed over busy backgrounds or low-contrast areas that compromise legibility.
• Not include effects such as drop shadows, glows, outlines or filters.
• Only be used at sizes that ensure legibility, particularly for digital applications and small-scale print.

Examples of Incorrect Usage

When in Doubt

If you're unsure about the proper use of a university logo or mark, or need assistance preparing artwork, contact the Office of Marketing and Communications for guidance and approved assets.

Sub-brand Logos & Marks

Colleges, departments, programs, departments and offices are considered sub-brands of Lenoir-Rhyne University. As such, these entities are not permitted to create their own logo that differs from the approved Lenoir-Rhyne University logo for a sub-brand. Contact Marketing and Communications for design assistance for approved sub-brand logos for colleges, schools, programs, offices, etc. Sub-brands should also avoid the addition of text taglines or other text statements adjacent to Lenoir-Rhyne logos that may be confused as representing the Lenoir-Rhyne brand.

File Types & Resolution

Use the correct file type based on the medium:

• Vector files (EPS or SVG) for print, signage and large-scale applications.
• PNG or JPG files for digital platforms. Ensure resolution is sufficient (300 dpi for print, 72 dpi for web). For digital use, also account for the appearance of logos and marks in both dark mode and light mode on computers.

Logos & Marks Available for Downloading

Two-color stacked logo. Preferred logo for all materials and communications.

• Two-Color Stacked Logo.eps
• Two-Color Stacked Logo.png

• Black Stacked Logo.eps
• Black Stacked Logo.png

This is a white/reversed logo on a transparent background.
The black background is used for display only. Don't use a black, red or white rectangle around Lenoir-Rhyne logos as shown. 

• White Stacked Logo.eps
• White Stacked Logo.png
   

• White Stacked, Red Slanted Background.eps
• White Stacked, Red Slanted Background.png
   

 

• LR - Red.eps
• LR - Red.png
   
• LR - Black.eps
• LR - Black.png
   
• LR - White.eps
• LR - White.png

 

• LTSS Red and Black.eps
• LTSS Red and Black.png
• LTSS Red and White.eps
• LTSS Red and White.png
• LTSS White.eps
• LTSS White.png

Color plays a vital role in expressing the Lenoir-Rhyne University brand. Our color palette is designed to be bold, distinctive and flexible across a range of applications—from print materials and digital communications to merchandise and signage.

Consistent use of brand colors helps reinforce recognition, build trust and unify the LR experience across all audiences. To maintain visual cohesion, primary colors (LR red and black) should be used most prominently, while secondary and neutral colors provide support and flexibility for layout, contrast and accessibility.

Always use the specified color values (PMS, CMYK, RGB and HEX) appropriate to your medium to ensure accurate color reproduction. When designing for print, work with approved vendors or consult the Office of Marketing and Communications to ensure color consistency across materials.

Primary Colors

Secondary Colors

Lenoir-Rhyne’s brand typography is structured into two typeface families that work together to create a distinctive and accessible voice across all platforms.

Primary Typeface

Our primary typeface is Franklin Gothic, which is used for titles, headlines, subheads and other prominent text. It reinforces brand recognition and creates strong visual hierarchy when used consistently. Listed are below are fonts that are typically used in print. Refer to the Adobe Fonts website or the typography section in the Digital Style Guide for additional information.

Secondary Typefaces

The secondary typeface is primarily Museo Slab, but sometimes Proxima Nova may be used. Both are designed for body copy, long-form text, captions and supporting information. It provides readability and complements the primary typeface in tone and structure. Refer to the typography section in the Digital Style Guide for additional information about secondary typefaces for digital use.

Our digital style guide and library provides guidelines for usage, documentation and raw code for all of Lenoir-Rhyne University digital patterns, components and templates. All of this is provided to assist you and LR's campus partners in creating, designing and developing robust and accessible digital experiences across all Lenoir-Rhyne University digital properties. 

Before beginning a website or digital project, please contact Doug Minor, associate vice president for marketing and communications, at doug.minor@lr.edu to review your goals, objectives and accessibility compliance for your project. All websites and digital projects must be compliant with federal website accessibility requirements, which are WCAG 2.0 Level A and Level AA. LR currently strives for WCAG 2.2 Level A and Level AA compliance.

We strive to capture photography and video content that authentically embodies the essence of the LR brand. Our commitment is to deliver visuals of the highest quality, executed in a candid and journalistic style. These visuals are more than just images; they are the visual language that speaks to the heart of LR's identity. In this brand guideline, you will find the principles and standards that guide our visual storytelling, ensuring that every image and video reflects the core values and personality of the LR brand.

To assist you in capturing the best possible photography and video, we have produced the following two guides which are useful whether you are using professional equipment, your smartphone or computer. 

• Photography Guidelines
• Video Guidelines

Photography & Video Principles

• Quality Above All: Our visuals should always strive for excellence. We aim to create photographs and videos that are not only technically superior but also emotionally resonant. Attention to detail, sharpness and color accuracy are our top priorities.
• Candid and Journalistic Style: LR is about authenticity, and our visuals should reflect this authenticity. We prefer candid and journalistic styles that capture real moments, real people and real emotions. Our content should tell a genuine, unscripted story.
• Consistency: Consistency in style and tone is crucial for building brand recognition. We maintain a consistent look and feel across all photography and video content to reinforce the LR brand identity.

Photography Guidelines

• Natural Lighting: Whenever possible, use natural lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in our visuals.
• Minimal Editing: Keep post-production editing to a minimum. Our goal is to showcase the true essence of the moment.
• Inclusivity: Our visuals should represent the diversity of our audience and the inclusivity of the LR brand. Ensure that our photographs reflect a broad spectrum of genders, majors/programs, races/ethnicities and backgrounds to accurately reflect the LR community.

Video Guidelines

• Storytelling: Every video should tell a compelling story that aligns with LR's values and messaging. Use a narrative structure to engage viewers.
• Cinematic Techniques: Employ cinematic techniques, such as creative framing, smooth camera movements& and selective focus, to enhance storytelling.
• Sound and Music: Pay close attention to sound quality and music selection. The audio should complement the visuals and evoke the desired emotional response.

Branding Elements

• Logo Usage: Use the official Lenoir-Rhyne logo and LR mark according to brand guidelines—maintain proper size, clear space and approved colors.
• Typography: Apply university-approved fonts consistently in all text overlays, lower-thirds and graphic elements to support brand recognition.
• Color Palette: Use only the official LR color palette to reinforce a unified visual identity.
• Brand Language: Sub-brands (programs, departments, divisions, centers, colleges, offices, etc.) may not create or use their own taglines or slogans. All messaging must align with the university’s overarching voice.

By following these brand standards, we ensure every expression of the LR brand reflects our commitment to quality, authenticity and a unified voice. Consistent storytelling strengthens our impact and reinforces what it means to be part of the Lenoir-Rhyne community.

Your email signature is an extension of the Lenoir-Rhyne University brand. A consistent, professional signature helps reinforce our identity, communicate clearly and maintain credibility with internal and external audiences.

The following guidelines outline the standard format and content for university email signatures.

Standard Format

All faculty and staff should use the standard signature format below. The university name should be bolded and appear in LR Red (Outlook’s default red or Hex #a31f34). Font should remain consistent with the email body text—typically Calibri or Arial, 11 pt.

Example:

Jane Doe, Ph.D.
Director of Marketing and Communications
Lenoir-Rhyne University
625 7th Ave NE, LRU 7483
Hickory, North Carolina 28601
jane.doe@lr.edu
W: 828.328.5555 | C: 828.555.5555.
www.lr.edu

Do Not Include

To ensure clarity and brand consistency, signatures should not include the following:

• Inspirational quotes, personal sayings or religious verses; or links to non-lr.edu webpages that include any of these items
• Taglines, slogans or mottos that have not been officially approved by the university
• Images, clipart or non-university logos
• Vintage or university logos that are no longer approved for official use
• Decorative fonts, emojis or excessive styling
• Background colors, background patterns or alternate text colors (other than LR red for the university name) or black for signature text.
• Typography or fonts that are not considered professional

While we respect individual expression and personal beliefs, email signatures represent the university in a professional setting. Consistency in formatting ensures that communications remain inclusive, accessible, and in alignment with our institutional voice.

Dark Mode Considerations

Many users now view emails in dark mode, which can affect how your email signature appears—particularly font colors and logos.

To ensure your signature remains legible and professional in both light and dark modes:

• Avoid manually setting font colors other than black for body text and LR red (#a31f34) for the university name. Custom colors may display unpredictably in dark mode.
• Do not use white or light-colored text, as it may disappear against a dark background.
• Avoid placing your signature text over a background color or image.
• Minimize or avoid using logos or images, as transparent PNGs or images with dark elements may not render well in all email clients.

Test your signature in both light and dark mode email settings to confirm legibility and appearance.

While some rendering issues are outside your control, following these best practices helps ensure your email signature looks polished and on-brand across devices and settings.

Additional Tips

• Limit to one or two phone numbers (work and cell).
• Avoid using titles like “Mr.”, “Ms.”, or “Dr.” unless necessary for clarity and instead list your academic or professional degree after your name, e.g., Jane Doe, Ph.D. or John Doe, M.A.
• If you are an LR alumnus/a, list your class year after your name, e.g., Jane Doe '01. If you have a graduate degree or higher, list as Jane Doe '01, MBA'05
• If your office has multiple locations, you may include those details beneath your address.
• Optional additions can include professional or licensing credentials or pronouns (e.g., he/him).

Lenoir-Rhyne University’s logos, marks and name are registered trademarks and may only be used in accordance with university brand standards. These assets represent the university’s identity and reputation and must be used with care and consistency.

Use Requirements

• Only official university logos and marks may be used for marketing, communications and merchandise.
• Sub-brands (colleges, departments, programs and offices) must use the approved university logo or sub-brand lockup. Custom logos are not permitted.
• No alterations (color, proportion or added elements) may be made to any logo or mark.
• Logos or names may not be paired with unofficial taglines or phrases that could be interpreted as university-sanctioned.

Licensed Vendor Requirement
Any item bearing the Lenoir-Rhyne University or LR name, logo or mark—whether for sale or as a giveaway—must be produced by a university-approved licensed vendor.

This policy applies to:

• Apparel (e.g., t-shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, vests, hats, uniforms)
• Promotional items (e.g., mugs, glasses, magnets, lanyards, stickers, bags, pins)
• Event materials or signage that use the Lenoir-Rhyne LR name or brand

View Licensed LR Vendors

Royalty Guidelines
Items that are sold (e.g., fundraising merchandise or bookstore items) or distributed publicly using university logos or names are subject to royalty fees, which support the university’s licensing and trademark management program. Royalties are typically collected by the licensed vendor and submitted to the university’s licensing partner.

To ensure compliance, please consult the Office of Marketing and Communications before placing any order involving university logos, names, or marks.

Brand Licensing Portal
All designed items that use Lenoir-Rhyne or LR logos, marks or the university name must be submitted for review and approval through the LR licensing portal. Only licensed, approved vendors have access to submit items for review and approval through the brand portal. Lenoir-Rhyne partners with Learfield's Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) portal for the review and approval of submitted designs and maintaining a record of approved vendors.